Tips from LASD for swimming safely this summer.

As the weather heats up and more children and families head to pools and beaches, LASD wants to remind parents and caregivers to keep an eye on their kids and actively supervise them when they are in and around water.

Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional deaths in children aged 1-4. Nearly 300 children younger than five drown in swimming pools and spas An additional 4,000 children that age go to hospital emergency rooms due to submersion injuries in pools and spas. What young child doesn't love the pool? As the summer heat approaches and more families will be enjoying their pools, Lancaster Sheriff's Station reminds you to always keep safety in mind. • Designate a "water watcher" every single time children in your care are in or near the water. • Make sure your kids know how to swim. • As a parent or guardian, learn CPR. • Always remove portable pool ladders when not in use. • Have life-saving equipment such as life rings or reaching poles available for use • Use self-closing and self-latching gates • Install an alarm on the door leading from the house to the pool • Install a fence of at least four feet in height around the perimeter of the pool or spa Following a few safety tips can ensure your child's safety and your peace of mind so you can fully enjoy summer! For more information and resources for pool and spa safety and the Pool and Spa Safety Act, visit: www.PoolSafely.gov Lancaster Sheriff’s Station polices the City of Lancaster, Antelope Valley College in Lancaster, and the unincorporated communities of Antelope Acres, Lake Los Angeles, and Quartz Hill in the Antelope Valley.